“When you are coming together for one match, it’s important to pick guys in form, and these are the players who have impressed this season.

“We had a good culture last season so we will look to build on that, do some one-on-one coaching and make sure it’s an enjoyable week; it is a thrill for these guys to represent their provinces in this team.”

The New Zealand Heartland XV play New Zealand Marist in Timaru at Apline Energy Stadium next Saturday. The Heartland XV will be looking to defend the McRae Cup a prize the teams play for on an annual basis.

“New Zealand Marist bring some very good players together and the matches are always very evenly contested so we know we’re in for a big match,” Matthews said

A total 12 players in the squad will take part in this weekend’s Meads and Lochore Cup Finals before the team assembles.